Dr Princess Anne-Sheilah Makhado against all odds, defied age barriers when she was conferred with a PhD in Advance Nursing Science, under the Faculty of Health Sciences during the first session of the University of Venda Spring Graduation Ceremony that took place on Friday, 06 September 2024.
In her thesis, Strategies to improve support for children heading families in Limpopo Province, South Africa, she used a qualitative approach with an exploratory and descriptive design. The findings of her study revealed psychological, financial, social, educational, health and safety challenges from children heading families. It was further found that psychological, financial, social, educational, health and safety support from relatives and community members were inadequate and ineffective. Psychological, financial, social, educational, health and safety strategies to improve support for children heading families were developed.
This accomplishment is a testament to the value of lifelong learning and determination. She said “I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter their age. My journey proves that with perseverance and passion, anything is possible. I am excited to continue contributing to the field of nursing through research and education. Age should never be a barrier to personal growth and achievement.”
Dr Makhado is a retiree who served various departments with loyalty and dedication during her 43 years of service in the South African Health and allied industries.
She empowers students by imparting academic skills and knowledge that increase efficiency and leadership in the nursing profession. To that end, she maintains several leadership positions in the nursing environment, having served as Nursing Service Manager in Midland Hospital, and founding the Nursing College at Midland Hospital in Graaff Reinet in the Eastern Cape. She is the chairperson of Elim Retiree Health Forum and founded the Tshilwavhusiku School for Physically and mentally challenged learners in Ha-Kutama. In addition, Princess founded the Voice of the Voiceless, a non-profit organization that addresses youth and female social and health issues in Louis Trichardt. She has been a member of the Louis Trichardt Hospital board from 2016 to date and has authored the book “The Master Lock Key” published in 2016.
Dr Makhado demonstrates proven abilities in communication, leadership, and management. She is well-versed in conflict- and problem-management and is a sought-after motivational speaker. She makes informed decisions with ease and facilitates the coordination and building of skills. She is an expert in financial management, per PFMA guidelines. motivating students and employees, as well as addressing groups in several churches.
She is passionate about issues surrounding youth and service delivery. This passion was nurtured by her late mother, a teacher who instilled in her an indomitably resilient spirit from a tender age based on the saying “Never take no for an answer.” Princess’s over-riding passion for girl children inculcates in them the firm knowledge that they are able and independent, capable of leading successful lives as leaders. Accordingly, she has developed strategies to improve support for child-headed families in improving the quality of their lives, whilst they continue with their education. She will always be a community builder, as she firmly believes children are the foundation of a nation’s future.
Issued by:
Department Marketing, Branding & Communication.
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
